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CPT®
66220

CPT® Code 66220
Deleted

Official Description

Repair of scleral staphyloma; without graft Radiology

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A staphyloma refers to an abnormal protrusion of uveal tissue through a weakened area of the sclera or cornea, which can occur due to injury, disease, or inflammation. This condition can manifest in various forms, depending on the location of the protrusion within the eye. There are five primary types of staphylomas: anterior segment staphylomas, which affect the cornea and surrounding scleral tissue; intercalary or limbal staphylomas, located at the junction of the cornea and sclera, often leading to complications such as secondary angle closure glaucoma or corneal astigmatism; ciliary staphylomas, found near the ciliary bodies; equatorial staphylomas, which occur in areas associated with vortex veins; and posterior or macular staphylomas, typically identified at the back of the eye through ophthalmoscopy, often in patients with myopia. The procedure described by CPT® Code 66220 involves the surgical excision of the protruding uveal tissue, followed by the closure of the scleral defect using sutures. This repair aims to restore the integrity of the sclera and prevent further complications associated with staphylomas.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 66220 is indicated for the repair of scleral staphyloma, which may arise due to various underlying conditions that weaken the sclera or cornea. The following are specific indications for performing this procedure:

  • Protrusion of Uveal Tissue A visible protrusion of uveal tissue through a weakened area of the sclera or cornea, necessitating surgical intervention to restore ocular integrity.
  • Complications from Staphylomas Presence of complications such as secondary angle closure glaucoma or significant corneal astigmatism that may arise from intercalary or limbal staphylomas.
  • Myopia Diagnosis of posterior or macular staphylomas in patients with myopia, where surgical repair may be required to address the protrusion and prevent further vision impairment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 66220 involves several critical steps to effectively repair the scleral staphyloma. Each step is essential for ensuring a successful outcome:

  • Step 1: Anesthesia Administration The procedure begins with the administration of appropriate anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the surgical intervention. This may involve local anesthesia to numb the area around the eye.
  • Step 2: Surgical Exposure The surgeon carefully exposes the affected area of the eye, allowing for clear visibility of the staphyloma and surrounding tissues. This may involve the use of specialized instruments to retract the eyelids and stabilize the eye.
  • Step 3: Excision of Protruding Tissue The protruding uveal tissue is excised with precision. This step is crucial as it removes the abnormal tissue that is causing the staphyloma, thereby addressing the immediate issue.
  • Step 4: Scleral Closure After the excision, the surgeon proceeds to close the scleral defect. This is accomplished by suturing the edges of the sclera together, ensuring that the integrity of the eye is restored and preventing any further protrusion.
  • Step 5: Post-Operative Assessment Once the repair is complete, the surgeon assesses the surgical site for any signs of complications and ensures that the closure is secure. This may involve checking for proper alignment and stability of the sclera.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the procedure coded by CPT® 66220, patients typically require careful monitoring and post-operative care to ensure proper healing. This may include the use of topical antibiotics to prevent infection, as well as anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and discomfort. Patients are often advised to avoid strenuous activities and to follow up with their ophthalmologist for regular assessments of the surgical site. Recovery time can vary, but patients should be informed about the signs of potential complications, such as increased pain, vision changes, or signs of infection, which would necessitate immediate medical attention.
Short Descr REPAIR EYE LESION
Medium Descr REPAIR SCLERAL STAPHYLOMA W/O GRAFT
Long Descr Repair of scleral staphyloma; without graft Radiology
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P4E - Eye procedure - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 20 - Other intraocular therapeutic procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2019-01-01 Deleted Code deleted
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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